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Table 1 Early-level response plan: pre-pandemic planning recommendations for embryology and andrology laboratories

From: IVF laboratory COVID-19 pandemic response plan: a roadmap

Recommendation

Basis of evidence

Educate staff on disease transmission and mitigation methods

Recommendation based on consensus guidelines (CDC) [22]

Perform hand hygiene compliance observation audits

Recommendation based on a systematic review [23]

Consider additional vaccination for preventing respiratory illness

Recommendation based on the WHO position paper [24]

Perform fit testing for N95 masks

Recommendation based on expert opinion

Stock essential PPE supply

Recommendation based on expert opinion

Prepare staff emergency contact lists

Recommendation based on a committee opinion paper (SART, ASRM) and guidelines (ESHRE for good practice) [25, 26]

Update and maintain records on a remote server

Recommendation based a committee opinion paper (SART, ASRM) [25]

Dedicate a spare storage cryotank and sufficient liquid nitrogen supply

Recommendation based on accreditation standards (College of American Pathologists) [27]

Clean regularly the cryotanks

Recommendation based on risk assessment research [16]

Store spare gas cylinders

Recommendation based on usual practice